Love Island producers are firmly backing Whitney Adebayo, with exclusive reports confirming they are in advanced talks to sign the 2023 contestant for the upcoming All Stars series. This move comes as the 28-year-old Londoner remains embroiled in a bitter legal dispute with her ex-partner and fellow islander, Lochan Nowacki.
A Turbulent Split and Legal Fallout
Whitney and Lochan, who met on the ITV2 dating show in 2023, were the favourites to win but finished as runners-up. Their relationship ended in April 2024 after nearly two years together. The split quickly turned acrimonious when Whitney publicly accused Lochan on TikTok of using a racial slur against her, alleging he called her skin 'dirty'.
In a swift retaliation, Lochan launched a defamation lawsuit against Whitney in August 2024, initiating a legal battle that continues. A source close to the situation revealed, 'Whitney has certainly had a turbulent few months. Her split from Lochan has become one of the nastiest in the show’s history.'
A Fresh Start in the Villa
The offer to return to the Love Island villa for the All Stars edition is seen as a chance for Whitney to move on. 'So when Love Island bosses reached out about returning for All Stars she thought why not?' the source added. 'The last time she was in the villa was with Lochan, so it’s definitely one way to get rid of the memories of him by making new ones with someone else.'
Producers are reportedly 'very excited' about her potential return, viewing her as a compelling figure for the series. This backing is also being interpreted by some as a clear indication of where the show's allegiances lie amidst the ongoing legal conflict.
Whitney would be the second confirmed contestant for Love Island: All Stars, following the announcement that Millie Court will also return. Hosted by Maya Jama, the series will film in South Africa in January 2025, featuring former islanders seeking a second shot at love.
The Clash of Allegations
The core of the legal dispute stems from a social media video Whitney posted, where she claimed Lochan made the derogatory remark about her skin. Lochan vehemently denied the accusation in his own TikTok response, stating he felt 'insulted' and 'devastated' by the allegation of racism.
He provided his version of events, claiming the argument began when Whitney put her nails in his face and said, 'My hands are so clean, yours aren't.' Lochan insists his retort, 'No they're not,' was an off-the-cuff remark about her hands being in his face and was never about her skin colour.
Whitney later countered this narrative in another video, directly addressing Lochan and standing by her story. She further accused him of being a 'culture vulture' and alleged she experienced microaggressions during their relationship.
With advanced talks underway and Whitney reportedly ready to sign the contract, her return to the iconic villa seems imminent, setting the stage for a highly dramatic All Stars season.
